Adrenal schwannoma in a female patient; A rare benign neoplasm: Case report and literature review

Abstract Introduction Schwannomas are rare, slow-growing, usually benign tumors that originate from myelin-producing Schwann cells. Adrenal schwannomas are an exceptionally rare subset of these tumors, with few cases reported in the literature. Presentation of Case We present the case of a 44-year old female patient being evaluated for chronic abdominal pain at the outpatient clinic. Clinical and laboratory workup was unremarkable. An abdominal CT scan was performed, revealing a left suprarenal solid mass (5 × 6 cm). Surgical resection of the adrenal gland was performed, given the patient’s symptoms, the size of the tumor, and its malignant potential. The patient completed the postoperative period satisfactorily, and her symptoms improved. Histopathological findings were compatible with a benign adrenal schwannoma. Discussion Schwannomas generally appear in the head, neck and extremities, with the vestibulocochlear nerve being the most frequently involved site. Retroperitoneal schwannomas account for 1–5 % of retroperitoneal masses and comprise only 1–3 % of all schwannomas. Their incidence increases with age, from 4 % in the general population, reaching 7 % in patients over 70 years of age. Conclusion Adrenal incidentalomas represent a diagnostic challenge. Because of the malignant potential of large (> 4 cm) adrenal masses and the lack of characteristic findings using conventional imaging techniques and laboratory diagnostic tools, surgical excision with histopathology and immunohistochemistry analysis are required for definitive diagnosis and optimal management.